Ramadan observance sparks backpack giveaway in Tompkinsville

Islamic Circle of North America will hold the event in the Albanian Islamic Cultural Center

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - Got school supplies?

If not, don't fret, The Staten Island chapter of the Islamic Circle of North America is staging a Back to School Giveaway on Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Albanian Islamic Cultural Center, Tompkinsville.

Five hundred free backpacks are available to visitors.

The event takes place during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, during which charitable acts are especially encouraged.

ICNA's hope is that the event will both help struggling families provide for their children and inspire the American Muslim community to partake in this commendable act.

Outreach Director Omar Ranginwala said distribution is on a first-come, first-served basis. Each child who attends will be given a bag; adults who come without children are limited to one bag.

Bags for older children will feature scissors and a highlighter; bags for younger children, crayons and markers. Additionally, each bag has two notebooks, two pens, two pencils, one sharpener, one eraser and one ruler.

The center is located at 307 Victory Blvd. For more information, visit www.icnany.org or phone Ranginwala, outreach director, at 646-820-4262.